News release

BC Hydro and Dene Tha' First Nation come to agreement on Site C

VANCOUVER – BC Hydro and Dene Tha' First Nation have concluded an agreement related to the construction and operation of the Site C Clean Energy Project.

The agreement includes a one-time payment and commits BC Hydro to providing Dene Tha' First Nation with ongoing information on employment, training and procurement opportunities during construction.

With a population of approximately 2,400 members, the Dene Tha' primarily reside amongst three communities located in northwest Alberta at Bushe River, Meander River and Chateh. There are approximately 1,800 members living on reserve and about 600 living off. Dene Tha' is an adherent to Treaty 8, which covers parts of northeastern B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories.

The agreement between Dene Tha' and BC Hydro signifies a commitment to work together on the Site C project going forward.

Quotes:

Chief Joe Pastion, Dene Tha' First Nation
"This agreement is a milestone in the relationship between BC Hydro and Dene Tha'. We are striving to strengthen our relations with industry and First Nations in our Traditional Territory. Dene Tha's Treaty rights will continue to be practised by our current members and future generations."

Jessica McDonald, President and CEO, BC Hydro
"We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Dene Tha' First Nation. We are committed to working hard to build relationships with Aboriginal groups and are grateful for this opportunity to work with the community of Dene Tha'."

The Site C Clean Energy Project is a hydroelectric dam and generating station under construction in northeast B.C. The project is being built to meet long-term electricity needs in B.C. Once complete in 2024, the project will provide clean, reliable and cost-effective electricity for more than 100 years.